Assam-born physicist breaks barriers at the frontiers of Quantum technology

Medhikuchi, a small village near Pathsala in Assam, may seem far removed from the world’s most advanced scientific laboratories. Yet it is from this quiet corner of the state that a remarkable journey into the frontiers of quantum physics began—one defined by academic excellence, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to fundamental science.

The scientist’s early education took shape at Sankardev Shishu Niketan in Hathinapur and later in Choukhuti, where he completed his high school studies. A pivotal moment came in 2010, when he secured the top rank in the HSLC examinations among more than 2.7 lakh students across Assam. The achievement not only brought statewide recognition but also cemented his confidence to pursue a career in science.

He went on to study Physics and Mathematics at Bajali College—now Bhattadev University—in Pathsala for higher secondary education. During this period, participation in Mathematics Olympiad workshops organised by Gauhati University played a crucial role in shaping his interest in theoretical science, laying the academic groundwork for what would become an international research career.

Despite having the option to pursue engineering at premier National Institutes of Technology or a medical degree at institutions like Guwahati Medical College, he chose a less conventional path—fundamental research. This decision led him to the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, where he completed his undergraduate degree in Physics in 2017.

His academic journey then took a global turn. Supported by a fellowship from the Homer L. Dodge Department of Physics and Astronomy, he moved to the United States to pursue doctoral studies at the University of Oklahoma, earning a Ph.D. in theoretical quantum physics in 2023. Soon after, he joined the research group of renowned physicist Professor Prineha Narang at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) as a postdoctoral research scientist in quantum information science.

After two productive years at UCLA, he transitioned from academia to applied innovation, joining Sygaldry Technologies as a Staff Physicist, where he now works on building quantum-accelerated AI servers aimed at translating quantum theory into real-world applications.

His research focuses on understanding light–matter interactions at the quantum level, a field that underpins future technologies in quantum computing, secure communication, and advanced sensing. Beyond independent research, he collaborates with experimental teams at leading institutions such as Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory and Oxford University, while also mentoring young scientists.

His contributions extend well beyond the laboratory. In 2024, he served on the Grant Review Panel of the US–India Science and Technology Endowment Fund, evaluating collaborative proposals in quantum technologies and artificial intelligence. He has also acted as a peer reviewer for top-tier journals including Physical Review Letters, Physical Review A, and Applied Physics Letters, and served on the Physics Hiring Committee at the University of Oklahoma, helping assess future faculty talent.

A strong advocate for leadership and policy engagement, he currently serves as Elect of the Forum on Graduate Student Affairs (FGSA) at the American Physical Society, a role that involves engaging with members of the US Congress on science and immigration policy. During his doctoral years, he also served as President and Vice President of the Physics Graduate Student Association, fostering inclusivity and collaboration within the academic community. Additionally, he spearheaded an outreach initiative linking Oklahoma-based research institutions with counterparts across the Indian subcontinent to promote international collaboration and student mobility.

Reflecting on his journey, he credits his formative years in Assam for instilling the values of focus, perseverance, and humility—qualities that continue to guide his work. His message to young students, particularly those from smaller towns and rural backgrounds, is clear: a passion for learning and the courage to follow curiosity can bridge the distance between a modest classroom and the cutting edge of global science.